May I suggest a Singer 401? I have both a 301 and 401 (Singer) and I think if I had to choose, I'd go with the 401 for the zig zag and fancy stitches that would allow you to do applique and topstitching. In time, look into a walking foot and free motion (darning foot). If you want new, I think Janome is a good way to go IMHO.